Destinations

  1. December 7, 2011

    764610993_68bad9bbfb_o

    AMS Schiphol: Celebrate the Arts Between Flights

    The spirit and culture of Amsterdam hits you as soon as you step off the plane at the AMS Schiphol Airport. Tulips are on display at the flower shop and wooden shoes are for sale at every corner. The Port of Portland is proud to offer nonstop Delta flights from PDX to AMS Schiphol. The next time you’re passing through the AMS Schiphol Airport, put down your crossword puzzle, take out your earphones and do some exploring.This isn’t just any old airport. AMS was recently noted in National Geographic’s list of the best airports worldwide. AMS was specifically noted for its fine art exhibits and new library. Read more »

  2. December 2, 2011

    5248851173_009379eb4d_b

    Friday Fun Facts: Holiday Beast

    Happy Friday! Every Friday, we will present you with a trivia question in our newest blog feature, Friday Fun Facts. To answer the question, post a comment below.

    Friday Fun Fact: Holiday Beast

    On the 5th of December in the Alpine/Germanic countries of Europe, people dress up in frightening costumes of this holiday beast and tear through the streets warning bad children that St. Nicholas will not reward them with presents. What is the name of this mythical monster? Read more »

  3. December 2, 2011

    5333942199_93c8b2632d_b

    Top 3 Christmas Markets near Amsterdam

    While you might be drawn to Europe when the weather is warmer, exploring Europe during the wintertime is a uniquely magical experience. There is something about the holidays in Europe that is unlike anywhere else on Earth. One of the most festive, spectacular winter experiences in Europe is the Christmas markets. If you’re hopping on a nonstop Delta flight from PDX to Amsterdam this winter, here are three magical Christmas markets nearby that you should be sure to visit: Read more »

  4. November 29, 2011

    Kit flying scenes from the Morro Bay, CA Parade and Kite Festiva

    Shogatsu: Japanese New Year

    For many of us, New Year’s Eve conjures up images of fireworks, late-night celebrations, champagne flutes and glittering confetti. Across the pond in Tokyo, the Japanese celebrate the new year in a much different way. New Years has been called the most important Japanese holiday of all, and festivities are always over the top on this night. Here are three things that will make New Year’s Eve in Japan one to remember. Read more »

  5. November 18, 2011

    Lit up canals in Amsterdam keep the season bright.

    ‘Tis the Season in Holland

    Bundle up, folks! Grab your coats, hats and scarves because it’s wintertime in Holland. Grab some chocolademelk (Dutch hot chocolate) and warm poffertjes and enjoy these postcard perfect photos of winter in Holland. ‘Tis the season! How will you be celebrating the holidays this year? Read more »

  6. November 16, 2011

    4222200838_f2fca0ba16_b

    Glühwein: A Holiday Favorite

    It’s that time of year in Portland. The temperatures are dropping, leaves are falling and the first glimmer of holiday lights are shining throughout Downtown Portland. Even though we haven’t hit Thanksgiving yet, there is no reason why you can’t bring the holiday cheer into your home early. In Europe, Christmas markets are in full swing as people begin Christmas shopping and enjoying delicious warm treats like steaming, stuffed baked potatoes, warm apricot Krapfens (doughnuts), and the star of the show, Glühwein. Read more »

  7. November 10, 2011

    Venice Carnival is famous for elaborate masks and fantastic costumes.

    Carnival: Europe’s Longest Festival

    Why have a single festival when you can have a festive season? Europe’s got it all figured out and has learned how to maximize the fun by celebrating Carnival over several months. Carnival is actually celebrated all over the world, but several destinations in Europe embrace this festive season to the fullest in a series of fantastical events, traditions and parades. The historic roots of Carnival stretch deep into the Catholic religion. Today, Catholics and non-Catholics around the world come together to celebrate and parade through the streets. Carnival season stretches from November to February every year. Read more »

  8. November 4, 2011

    3159072755_b033dc4dc2_b

    EuropeanWinterness Week 4: Munich

    There is a reason why Europe is always a popular location for the winter Olympics. Europe claims fame for some of the most spectacular skiing and winter sport conditions worldwide. Whether you’re traveling alone, with a special someone, or with a family or group, visiting a snow resort near Munich should be on your list.

    Munich is conveniently located on the edge of the Austrian border, close to dozens of ski and snow resorts. It’s often difficult to sift through the many options to chose a resort that is best for you. We’re doing the work for you. Here are three of the best ski resorts near Munich. Read more »

  9. October 31, 2011

    2744917134_3e5216b89f_b

    EuropeanWinterness Week 3: Venice

    Venice’s Top 3

    Venice is not called the “Queen of the Adriatic” for nothing. This floating island has been a European favorite destination for centuries. Venice is small, serene and quiet (unless it’s Carnival season!) and offers some of the greatest photo opportunities a traveler can ask for. Tiny winding alleyways, draping clothing on drying lines and gondolas aplenty create an atmosphere that is unlike any other European city. Venice is worthy of a visit regardless of the season. If you’re heading to Venice this winter, here are three of Venice’s best that you should be sure not to miss.

    Enter our EuropeanWinterness contest this week to be entered to win a Conquest Dyad Tandem inflatable kayak, inspired by Venice. You’ll also be entered to win the grand prize of a trip to Europe for two on a nonstop Delta flight to Amsterdam! Head to http://europeanwinterness.com and enter daily. Read more »

  10. October 24, 2011

    5503500872_b9bef6ac5a_b

    EuropeanWinterness Week 2: London

    London Through the Eyes of a Local

    One of the greatest benefits of traveling to Europe during the winter months is avoiding crowds of fellow tourists. If you can spare just a few degrees off the thermometer from the summer months, traveling in the winter is ideal for many. If you are going to visit Europe during the winter, it only makes sense to travel like the locals do. Read more »